Couples Counseling Therapists in Murfreesboro, TN

Photo of Percy W. Ford - Lighthouse Counseling and Mental Health, LLC, MC, LPC, MHSP, NCC, Counselor
Lighthouse Counseling and Mental Health, LLC
Counselor, MC, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37128
Percy Ford, MC, LPC-MHSP, NCC established Lighthouse Correctional Counseling and Mental Health Services in 2012 to provide Individual Psychotherapy, Family Counseling, Group Therapy and Couples Counseling to offenders and their families. Mr. Ford earned a BS in Social Work from Tuskegee University in 1997 and graduated from Argosy University School of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences in 2007 with a MA in Professional Counseling.
Percy Ford, MC, LPC-MHSP, NCC established Lighthouse Correctional Counseling and Mental Health Services in 2012 to provide Individual Psychotherapy, Family Counseling, Group Therapy and Couples Counseling to offenders and their families. Mr. Ford earned a BS in Social Work from Tuskegee University in 1997 and graduated from Argosy University School of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences in 2007 with a MA in Professional Counseling.
(615) 442-7106 View (615) 442-7106
Photo of Brittany Puckett, MS, CSTIP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brittany Puckett
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, CSTIP
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
I am also trained in Prepare/Enrich for couples.
After experiencing my own trials in life, I learned just how beneficial counseling can be to supporting us through life’s difficulties. It is my goal to provide that healthy support to others who are walking hard paths. For me, the therapeutic relationship involves a mutual learning from one another, as well as addressing a person’s needs from all arenas, including emotional, physical, and spiritual. An understanding of attachment helps me encourage clients to find clarity in their lives and healthier relationships with self and others. I am grateful for the honor of being a safe space for clients.
I am also trained in Prepare/Enrich for couples.
After experiencing my own trials in life, I learned just how beneficial counseling can be to supporting us through life’s difficulties. It is my goal to provide that healthy support to others who are walking hard paths. For me, the therapeutic relationship involves a mutual learning from one another, as well as addressing a person’s needs from all arenas, including emotional, physical, and spiritual. An understanding of attachment helps me encourage clients to find clarity in their lives and healthier relationships with self and others. I am grateful for the honor of being a safe space for clients.
(615) 703-8446 View (615) 703-8446
Photo of Andrew E Savage, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrew E Savage
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
With a wealth of experience, I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health challenges, such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, anger management, grief, couples counseling, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
As a dedicated and compassionate counselor, my approach is rooted in various therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Positive Psychology, Person Centered Therapy, Logotherapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
With a wealth of experience, I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health challenges, such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, anger management, grief, couples counseling, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
As a dedicated and compassionate counselor, my approach is rooted in various therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Positive Psychology, Person Centered Therapy, Logotherapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
(615) 471-7508 View (615) 471-7508
Photo of Alexis Fitzpatrick, MSSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexis Fitzpatrick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37129  (Online Only)
Specializing in anxiety, trauma, emotional disturbances, and borderline personality disorder,I also assist with relationship concerns.
You deserve to live a life of overall wellness. Anxiety and trauma can make you feel stuck in cycles, impacting not only your personal well-being but also your connections with others. Unwanted thoughts and emotions can be overwhelming to process, leaving you struggling to communicate effectively. Maybe you are seeking a solution to combat your current processing patterns or want to feel more connected to yourself or others. My ultimate goal is to walk with you while exploring your emotions and thoughts without judgment.
Specializing in anxiety, trauma, emotional disturbances, and borderline personality disorder,I also assist with relationship concerns.
You deserve to live a life of overall wellness. Anxiety and trauma can make you feel stuck in cycles, impacting not only your personal well-being but also your connections with others. Unwanted thoughts and emotions can be overwhelming to process, leaving you struggling to communicate effectively. Maybe you are seeking a solution to combat your current processing patterns or want to feel more connected to yourself or others. My ultimate goal is to walk with you while exploring your emotions and thoughts without judgment.
(615) 209-9251 View (615) 209-9251
Photo of Missy Loftis, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Missy Loftis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
I have received training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples, Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT), and I am level II trained in Eye Movement Desensititzation and Reprocessing (EMDR) as well as trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy.
As a marriage and family therapist, I see individuals, families, and couples. My experience is in working with anxiety, depression, marital conflict, divorce recovery, and various forms of trauma including domestic violence situations. My goal with every client is to provide a safe space which invites the client to connect with the deeper emotions underlying presenting issues. I see each client as a unique and complex individual and collaborate with the client to tailor a treatment plan to meet therapy goals.
I have received training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples, Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT), and I am level II trained in Eye Movement Desensititzation and Reprocessing (EMDR) as well as trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy.
As a marriage and family therapist, I see individuals, families, and couples. My experience is in working with anxiety, depression, marital conflict, divorce recovery, and various forms of trauma including domestic violence situations. My goal with every client is to provide a safe space which invites the client to connect with the deeper emotions underlying presenting issues. I see each client as a unique and complex individual and collaborate with the client to tailor a treatment plan to meet therapy goals.
(615) 829-8818 View (615) 829-8818
Photo of Travis Thompson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Travis Thompson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
I typically work with issues concerning life transitions, addiction, couples conflict, and Family of Origin. I also love working with clients looking to detransition/desist. I have significant experience working with complex cases. Each client brings their individual stories into the room. By the time we seek help, life has typically not been going as we expected. We want to find a way out, but are unsure how to do so. What we need is someone to help us be a guide through to recovery. This is a life-long change that will need continued support. Not only is this our battle, but the battle of those around us.
I typically work with issues concerning life transitions, addiction, couples conflict, and Family of Origin. I also love working with clients looking to detransition/desist. I have significant experience working with complex cases. Each client brings their individual stories into the room. By the time we seek help, life has typically not been going as we expected. We want to find a way out, but are unsure how to do so. What we need is someone to help us be a guide through to recovery. This is a life-long change that will need continued support. Not only is this our battle, but the battle of those around us.
(615) 219-2537 View (615) 219-2537
Photo of Laura L Tucker-Huggins, MA, LPC, MHSP, Counselor
Laura L Tucker-Huggins
Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
Counseling is offered for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
Life often forces us to address challenging situations. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, marital conflict, or a multitude of other personal issues, there are solutions that can help. Counseling offers you a supportive environment where problem areas are explored and goals developed to help you get your life back on track. It's through this process and the therapeutic relationship that true personal growth, healing, and acceptance occurs. I embrace a genuine, compassionate approach coupled with the most effective, evidenced based interventions that are goal directed and solution focused.
Counseling is offered for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
Life often forces us to address challenging situations. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, marital conflict, or a multitude of other personal issues, there are solutions that can help. Counseling offers you a supportive environment where problem areas are explored and goals developed to help you get your life back on track. It's through this process and the therapeutic relationship that true personal growth, healing, and acceptance occurs. I embrace a genuine, compassionate approach coupled with the most effective, evidenced based interventions that are goal directed and solution focused.
(615) 208-7223 View (615) 208-7223
Photo of Amanda May - Nashville Relationship Experts, MS
Nashville Relationship Experts
MS
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
On a personal note, we've been married fourteen years and deeply value our bond, even when our relationship has faced challenges.
Are you struggling in your marriage? If you want the hurt, disappointment, or disconnection to stop, you've come to the right place. We're Amanda and Michael May, and as a husband-and-wife team, we provide elevated professional guidance and expertise for marital crisis & growth. Clients say our approach is highly relatable and more productive than traditional couples counseling. We've delved deep into the work of researchers like Dr. John Gottman, Dr. Gary Chapman, and Esther Perel, amongst others, often using their findings to guide sessions.
On a personal note, we've been married fourteen years and deeply value our bond, even when our relationship has faced challenges.
Are you struggling in your marriage? If you want the hurt, disappointment, or disconnection to stop, you've come to the right place. We're Amanda and Michael May, and as a husband-and-wife team, we provide elevated professional guidance and expertise for marital crisis & growth. Clients say our approach is highly relatable and more productive than traditional couples counseling. We've delved deep into the work of researchers like Dr. John Gottman, Dr. Gary Chapman, and Esther Perel, amongst others, often using their findings to guide sessions.
(615) 909-2270 View (615) 909-2270
Photo of LaVonne Johnson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
LaVonne Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
My heart reaches out to you as you search to make the best decision for yourself, your spouse, your child and others. Like you, so many face challenges related to marital/family issues, school, depression, anxiety, anger, pregnancy, trauma, self-esteem and other life changing events that come our way. Regardless of where you fall, at the end of the day if it matters to you, it matters (period). There is no reason to feel guilty for wanting to feel stronger and happier with yourself and in your relationships. With 20 years of experience, I hope that this adds comfort and that my office is a safe haven for you to grow and to be heard.
My heart reaches out to you as you search to make the best decision for yourself, your spouse, your child and others. Like you, so many face challenges related to marital/family issues, school, depression, anxiety, anger, pregnancy, trauma, self-esteem and other life changing events that come our way. Regardless of where you fall, at the end of the day if it matters to you, it matters (period). There is no reason to feel guilty for wanting to feel stronger and happier with yourself and in your relationships. With 20 years of experience, I hope that this adds comfort and that my office is a safe haven for you to grow and to be heard.
(615) 461-4660 View (615) 461-4660
Photo of Dakota Lawrence - Mind The Gap, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mind The Gap
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
We partner with you to build meaningful connections and pathways for strength-based outcomes all through an integrative approach tailored specifically to meet YOUR needs.
Tired of "just talk" therapy? Mind the Gap offers holistic, integrative mental health practice that tailors therapy to meet your unique needs. Our team of providers are specialize in bridging the gap between mind and body. If you're wrestling with the chronic fatigue of depression, constantly waiting for the next shoe to drop, grieving the loss of life caused by chronic pain, or feel overwhelmed by your what's happening around you, we can help.
We partner with you to build meaningful connections and pathways for strength-based outcomes all through an integrative approach tailored specifically to meet YOUR needs.
Tired of "just talk" therapy? Mind the Gap offers holistic, integrative mental health practice that tailors therapy to meet your unique needs. Our team of providers are specialize in bridging the gap between mind and body. If you're wrestling with the chronic fatigue of depression, constantly waiting for the next shoe to drop, grieving the loss of life caused by chronic pain, or feel overwhelmed by your what's happening around you, we can help.
(615) 488-5601 View (615) 488-5601
Photo of Hope Craig Seay, MEd, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hope Craig Seay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
My name is Hope and for 19 years I have been helping individuals and couples achieve their goals, overcome their struggles, and live more fulfilling and meaningful lives.
Have you thought things like, "I have got to make some changes. I am weighed down with worry and it is starting to affect my relationships. I want to change and I have tried everything I know to do, even counseling, but I can't seem to make the changes stick. Sometimes I feel better, but it does not last. I am a Christian; is it normal for me to feel like this?" Or maybe you have thought things like, "My spouse and I used to have fun together, but now we keep getting into arguments. We talk through things and do better for a little while but then we start fighting again over the same things."
My name is Hope and for 19 years I have been helping individuals and couples achieve their goals, overcome their struggles, and live more fulfilling and meaningful lives.
Have you thought things like, "I have got to make some changes. I am weighed down with worry and it is starting to affect my relationships. I want to change and I have tried everything I know to do, even counseling, but I can't seem to make the changes stick. Sometimes I feel better, but it does not last. I am a Christian; is it normal for me to feel like this?" Or maybe you have thought things like, "My spouse and I used to have fun together, but now we keep getting into arguments. We talk through things and do better for a little while but then we start fighting again over the same things."
(615) 703-3417 View (615) 703-3417
Photo of Jennifer Pascual, LMSW, CSAT-C
Jennifer Pascual
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW, CSAT-C
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37128
I offer in-person or virtual sessions for individuals, couples, and families, and open and closed groups.
I am a Licensed Master's Social Worker and have 20 years of experience with TN Department of Children's Services including extensive training, knowledge, and experience in working with children, couples, and families healing from trauma, abuse, and addiction. It is a sacred experience to hear, believe, and understand my client's experience. I enjoy working with couples and helping them gain new perspectives. Using a practical approach to behavior change, I am committed to helping my clients reach their goals for healthy minds and spirits.
I offer in-person or virtual sessions for individuals, couples, and families, and open and closed groups.
I am a Licensed Master's Social Worker and have 20 years of experience with TN Department of Children's Services including extensive training, knowledge, and experience in working with children, couples, and families healing from trauma, abuse, and addiction. It is a sacred experience to hear, believe, and understand my client's experience. I enjoy working with couples and helping them gain new perspectives. Using a practical approach to behavior change, I am committed to helping my clients reach their goals for healthy minds and spirits.
(615) 857-3860 View (615) 857-3860
Photo of Melanie Hayden, MSEd, LADACII, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Melanie Hayden
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSEd, LADACII
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
Waitlist for new clients
Through various approaches that meet your needs, we will work towards a therapeutic relationship that will compassionately empower you as the individual.
My goal is to provide you with a safe environment that will give you the opportunity to heal. I am committed to helping you navigate through life’s trials, challenges, and find resolution by treating the whole person; mind, body, and spirit.
Through various approaches that meet your needs, we will work towards a therapeutic relationship that will compassionately empower you as the individual.
My goal is to provide you with a safe environment that will give you the opportunity to heal. I am committed to helping you navigate through life’s trials, challenges, and find resolution by treating the whole person; mind, body, and spirit.
(615) 857-3367 View (615) 857-3367
Photo of Carissa Seaton, MA, MMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Carissa Seaton
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37128
My goal is to build a strong therapeutic relationship grounded in collaboration, empathy, and trust. Committed to seeing each client as unique, I practice from a strength based and person-centered approach so you can get to your best self and experience lasting change. My clients rely on me to help make sense of the issues bringing them into therapy and also better understand how their family of origin, upbringing, and life experiences have impacted and continue to impact their mental well-being. I work with children, adolescents, teens, adults, couples, and families who may be experiencing a number of struggles or challenges.
My goal is to build a strong therapeutic relationship grounded in collaboration, empathy, and trust. Committed to seeing each client as unique, I practice from a strength based and person-centered approach so you can get to your best self and experience lasting change. My clients rely on me to help make sense of the issues bringing them into therapy and also better understand how their family of origin, upbringing, and life experiences have impacted and continue to impact their mental well-being. I work with children, adolescents, teens, adults, couples, and families who may be experiencing a number of struggles or challenges.
(615) 703-4971 View (615) 703-4971
Photo of Alex Courington, MA, MFT-I, NCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Alex Courington
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MA, MFT-I, NCC
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
I have specific training in helping couples learn to better communicate and resolve conflict.
How did you get here? Life has likely left you in a world of anxiety, family conflict, and stuck with traumatic memories. Moments that are part of your normal day have left a path of rage that you can't explain. You're left asking, "What is wrong with me?" Your value is not impacted by facing these common problems in life. Despite feeling like no one can understand you, there is hope for you and your relationships. It may be difficult to see that hope in the darkness of depression or stress.
I have specific training in helping couples learn to better communicate and resolve conflict.
How did you get here? Life has likely left you in a world of anxiety, family conflict, and stuck with traumatic memories. Moments that are part of your normal day have left a path of rage that you can't explain. You're left asking, "What is wrong with me?" Your value is not impacted by facing these common problems in life. Despite feeling like no one can understand you, there is hope for you and your relationships. It may be difficult to see that hope in the darkness of depression or stress.
(931) 208-5819 View (931) 208-5819
Photo of Myra Wilkinson - Wilkinson Family Therapy, LMFT, LPC-MHS, PhD, LMSW, Marriage & Family Therapist
Wilkinson Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC-MHS, PhD, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
We specialize in a wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges with individuals from childhood to adulthood, couples, and families.
Therapy is more than talking about the past. It is a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere in which past hurts are resolved and healing takes place. Traumatic experiences can serve as blocks, preventing present and future peace.  At Wilkinson Family Therapy, we enjoy connecting with our clients as they travel along their journey. Through intentionality and training, we create a comfortable, supportive space for our clients to grow and process their experiences.
We specialize in a wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges with individuals from childhood to adulthood, couples, and families.
Therapy is more than talking about the past. It is a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere in which past hurts are resolved and healing takes place. Traumatic experiences can serve as blocks, preventing present and future peace.  At Wilkinson Family Therapy, we enjoy connecting with our clients as they travel along their journey. Through intentionality and training, we create a comfortable, supportive space for our clients to grow and process their experiences.
(615) 908-2505 View (615) 908-2505
Photo of Allison Hunnicutt, LMFT, CCTP, CSAT-S, CMAT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Allison Hunnicutt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTP, CSAT-S, CMAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37128
I have furthered my education by receiving specialized training in Addiction, Trauma, and Relationship Disorders.
In my personal and professional life, I have found one thing to be true: Life can be hard. I have a passion for supporting others in resolving pain and reclaiming fullness in life. While pain is an inevitable part of the human experience, suffering is optional. I am dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families heal from relational and other traumas, problematic sexual behaviors, addictions, and intimacy disorders. I see brokenhearted adults and children as they learn to cope with an unstable world. My heart is to heal the broken hearted and give hope where hope was once lost.
I have furthered my education by receiving specialized training in Addiction, Trauma, and Relationship Disorders.
In my personal and professional life, I have found one thing to be true: Life can be hard. I have a passion for supporting others in resolving pain and reclaiming fullness in life. While pain is an inevitable part of the human experience, suffering is optional. I am dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families heal from relational and other traumas, problematic sexual behaviors, addictions, and intimacy disorders. I see brokenhearted adults and children as they learn to cope with an unstable world. My heart is to heal the broken hearted and give hope where hope was once lost.
(615) 395-2912 View (615) 395-2912
Photo of Jonathan Moore, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jonathan Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
I am passionate about seeing people restored mentally, emotionally, and spiritually through compassionate and holistic care. I specializing in working with men, adolescents, and couples.
I am passionate about seeing people restored mentally, emotionally, and spiritually through compassionate and holistic care. I specializing in working with men, adolescents, and couples.
(615) 861-8712 View (615) 861-8712
Photo of Bethany Bratcher - Transformed By Grace Counseling, MA, Pastoral Counselor
Transformed By Grace Counseling
Pastoral Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
I am an attachment-based specialist and trained in the Murray Method for working through trauma as well as the Prepare Enrich curriculum to use with couples, both married and pre-married.
Welcome to Transformed By Grace Counseling. I'm Bethany and I am a Christian counselor focused on helping individuals, couples, and families find hope, healing, and restoration through the transformative power of faith and counseling. I have 12 years of counseling experience helping people of all ages navigate life's challenges with an emphasis working with children and teens. My mission is to create a calm, supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and work towards positive change and personal growth so that you can enjoy the peaceful, joy-filled life you were created for.
I am an attachment-based specialist and trained in the Murray Method for working through trauma as well as the Prepare Enrich curriculum to use with couples, both married and pre-married.
Welcome to Transformed By Grace Counseling. I'm Bethany and I am a Christian counselor focused on helping individuals, couples, and families find hope, healing, and restoration through the transformative power of faith and counseling. I have 12 years of counseling experience helping people of all ages navigate life's challenges with an emphasis working with children and teens. My mission is to create a calm, supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and work towards positive change and personal growth so that you can enjoy the peaceful, joy-filled life you were created for.
(615) 570-3522 View (615) 570-3522
Photo of Angela Thompson - Angela Thompson Counseling, MMFT, MMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Angela Thompson Counseling, MMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
My desire is to offer hope and healing for you and your relationships by honoring your story, helping you discover places you are stuck, and walking along side you in your journey to healing. I see women, couples, and families, providing a safe place to explore hurt and pain on your path to wholeness and peace. I have advanced training in EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy), EMDR, Murray Method Trauma Certified level 1 & 2, and implement attachment-based therapy in my practice. Serving as a nurse for 30 years allowed me to sit with people through some of their darkest moments, while providing encouragement and hope.
My desire is to offer hope and healing for you and your relationships by honoring your story, helping you discover places you are stuck, and walking along side you in your journey to healing. I see women, couples, and families, providing a safe place to explore hurt and pain on your path to wholeness and peace. I have advanced training in EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy), EMDR, Murray Method Trauma Certified level 1 & 2, and implement attachment-based therapy in my practice. Serving as a nurse for 30 years allowed me to sit with people through some of their darkest moments, while providing encouragement and hope.
(615) 436-5930 View (615) 436-5930

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Couples Counseling Therapists

Does couples counseling work?

Research shows that couples counseling is effective; it can reduce relationship distress and improve emotional awareness, communication, empathy, intimacy, and overall relationship satisfaction. For example, emotionally focused therapy was found to be effective for about 75 percent of couples, and those benefits lasted at least two years.

When should a couple seek counseling?

Couples can benefit from counseling if they consistently struggle in their relationship. They may have lost the ability to communicate effectively, become entrenched in harmful patterns, begun to fight more than usual, broken the other’s trust, suffered from a mental or physical illness, or faced any number of other challenges. Many therapists offer free consultations, so if a couple isn’t sure whether therapy is necessary, asking directly can provide clarity.

How can I get my partner to go to couples therapy?

The decision to seek couples therapy is often driven by one partner, who then convinces the other to participate. When discussing the idea, the initiator should be direct and assertive. They can state the problems they see and explain how the relationship would benefit from therapy. In more serious cases, they can also explain how their relationship may suffer without making any changes or seeking professional help.

How does a couple prepare for couples counseling?

The anticipation of beginning couples counseling can be difficult—sometimes more difficult than the first session itself. Taking a few moments to reflect can allay those concerns: What are the current challenges? When and how did they begin? What do they want the relationship to look like in the future? Reflecting on these questions can help individuals or couples articulate their goals. Of course, the therapist will also ask questions and guide couples through the process.